Hackers are busy at work and it appears that game console source codes are their target. Though these are irrelevant with most leaks spilling designs of past game consoles, a beneficiary from them would be the people who create emulators. There are still people who love to play games on old consoles although there are legal implications. To date, game console manufacturers have not resorted to legal action but could do so at any time. However, Microsoft may just resort to such following the source code leaks of the original Xbox
The leaked sources codes of the original Xbox are authentic. This was confirmed by Microsoft representatives to The Verge. Aside from that, there was also a leak for Windows NT 3.5. Despite the possible legal action that the Redmond company may take, it would not come as a surprise if these codes would come in handy for emulator makers.
Game console manufacturers have rued the fact that some groups try to make a profit through emulators. Of course, some people simply do it for fun since they want to relive the good old days. But pinning down and classifying which is which will not be easy. Either way, these are practices with legal implications, meaning people who intend to go ahead and create emulators will not be free from problems moving forward.
Ironically, these new leaks come not long after Nintendo saw the source codes of its old consoles come out. These were the 1996 Nintendo 64 and the Nintendo Wii. Like the Xbox, these are games no longer in demand in the market. Some could be purchased from online sites, some reconditioned while others slightly used. But in all, they no longer have new games. Instead, they are stuck with old games like "Super Mario" that remain a hit to gamers until this day.
Speaking of emulators, Xbox does have one of its own for the Xbox One. This is concerning the old games from the Xbox and Xbox 360 that can still be playable on the latest console. However, this is a legal way to enjoy old games and not through unauthorized emulators.
It may only be a matter of time before these codes are scoured by programmers left idle Most are stuck at home playing video games and making the most out of the web. The unidentified leaker has likely done the same. Moving forward, it will be interesting if another game console's source codes come out in the open.
